Two Hawkesbury students have been recognised for their academic achievement and positive work ethic at the TAFE NSW Excellence Awards in Kingswood last night.

Christine Kelly was announced as the winner of the Industry Achievement Award (Tourism and Experience Services) and Patrick Brassell for Industry Achievement Award (Supply Chain and eCommerce) at the prestigious Western Sydney Excellence Awards at a gala awards ceremony at TAFE NSW Nepean.

TAFE NSW Regional General Manager, Michael Cullen, commended the winners for the commitment and dedication they have shown to their studies.

“These awards recognise our most passionate, industrious and skillful students, and the fact teachers are the ones who nominate the students’ makes it even more special,” Mr Cullen said.

“I have no doubt these students will go on to forge highly successful careers and will be wonderful ambassadors for TAFE NSW.”

Mr Cullen said the awards exemplified TAFE NSW’s commitment to training the workforce leaders of tomorrow.

“TAFE NSW is proud to equip students with practical skills and work experience so they’re ready to hit the ground running in their chosen field.

“It’s very gratifying for TAFE NSW staff to watch students like Christine and Patrick grow and transform their lives through education.”

Mr Cullen said the awards emphasised the commitment of TAFE NSW to train the workforce leaders of the future when, where and how it suits them.

Christine Kelly said “This year has been particularly rewarding. From the initial orientation, you realise the extent of the qualification and the commitment required to graduate. Beauty often seems superficial, however, the general population doesn't understand the physical, emotional and technical skills required to be successful.

“The teachers at TAFE NSW Mount Druitt are of a very high standard and also exceeded my expectations. The level of experience and professionalism from the staff was part of why I succeeded as well. They were all nurturing and encouraging. To this end, the environment has been one of balance between support and enabling the students to push through personal barriers.

“My time at TAFE NSW Mount Druitt has been something just for me. After years of caring for my two children, it was time to have a new goal and to forge a new future for us through role modelling that you are never too old to reinvent yourself.

Patrick Brassell’s interest in mechanics started from a young age, he was always drawn to anything with a motor.

Patrick said “I chose to study at TAFE NSW Mount Druitt as the training provided is of the highest quality and tailored to current industry standards. This is important to me to be able to keep up with the rapid advancements and skills required to become a highly skilled technician.

“My best career achievements include finishing my apprenticeship early, being signed off by my employer, also finishing Automotive Electrical at the same time, therefore, becoming a dual tradesman has been incredibly satisfying and a career goal, having been met.”

Major awards received by TAFE NSW students:

Media contact: Teresa Lane, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner 9796 5476, mobile 0412 773 887.